World Bank Technical Paper No. 278. Burning fossil fuels produces numerous pollutants which, in sufficient quantities, injure people, forests, and crops. The authors explain how to measure the benefits of air pollutant reduction and suggest strategies for air quality management. This paper looks at the nature and extent of air pollutants present in developing countries. It highlights the most serious pollutants and outlines their effect on the physical environment and on the health of people. The paper also provides information on the emission standards of various countries, including the United States, as well as the standards established by the World Health Organization.